Controller-Target Playback Management via Local Network Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing playback of streaming digital content across multiple devices are inefficient, particularly when multiple devices are present in the same setting, as they require complex manual procedures and can be disrupted by network connectivity issues.
Innovation Solution
A method where a controller device discovers and associates with a target device on a local network, exchanges unique identifiers, and communicates with a content server to manage playback operations, allowing for server-mediated interactions and efficient management of playback across devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the mobile device acts as playback master to manage content selection and streaming, then user interactivity and content search efficiency are improved, but the mobile device becomes tied up and playback sessions are interrupted when network connectivity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a television panel as an intermediary device that can independently maintain playback sessions. The mobile device serves as a remote control for content selection, while the television panel acts as the actual playback master that can continue streaming even when the mobile device loses network connectivity. This mediator approach separates the control function from the session maintenance function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are present in a setting with different capabilities, then functional versatility is improved, but complex manual procedures are required to manage playback across devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal remote control mechanism where the mobile device can control playback on the television panel regardless of the specific capabilities of each device. The system provides a unified interface for content selection that works across different device types, eliminating the need for users to learn device-specific procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The television panel serves as a mediator that receives control signals from the mobile device and manages the actual playback operations. This intermediary architecture simplifies the user interface while maintaining compatibility with various device capabilities in the network.
3Illumination intensity
If the television panel is used for content viewing, then display quality is improved, but the user interface for content search and selection is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the system into two functional segments: the mobile device handles content search and selection with its superior touchscreen interface, while the television panel handles content display with its superior screen quality. This segmentation allows each device to optimize for its strength without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an intermediary control relationship where the mobile device serves as a remote control for the television panel. Users can search and select content on the mobile device, which then transmits playback commands to the television panel for high-quality display, combining the advantages of both devices.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for managing playback of digital content on two or more different playback devices. A playback device designated as a controller is associated with a playback device designated as a playback target. Association is implemented via a local network discovery protocol. The controller issues commands to the target, which then streams digital content directly from a content server. The controller is able to separately stream related digital content for independent, but synchronized playback. Server mediated operations, such as device activation and application installation, are advantageously enabled by explicit association between the controller and the target.